European Countries Importing Record Levels of Russian LNG
European countries, including France, have significantly increased imports of Russian liquified natural gas despite efforts to reduce energy purchases supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The EU's goal of phasing out Russian fossil fuels by 2027 is off track, with French companies importing over double the amount of Russian LNG compared to the previous year. TotalEnergies, a French energy giant, cites pre-existing contracts for the imports. Critics argue that importing Russian LNG undermines Europe's energy transition and funds Russia's war efforts.
Key Points
- European countries, particularly France, have significantly increased imports of Russian LNG
- Efforts to phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027 are off track
- TotalEnergies cites pre-existing contracts for the imports
- Critics argue that importing Russian LNG undermines Europe's energy transition and funds Russia's war efforts
Pros
- Increased natural gas supply for European countries
- Maintaining contractual obligations
Cons
- Undermining Europe's energy transition
- Contributing to Russia's war efforts